January 2nd, 2026

Senate Bill Would Strip Broadband Funding

A Senate bill introduced in late November would rescind roughly $21 billion in unspent federal funds originally designated for broadband programs, setting up a potential debate over how the money should be used. The legislation, sponsored by Republican Sen. Joni Ernst of Iowa and co-sponsored by Republican Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas, targets a portion of the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) program that has not yet been allocated to states. BEAD was created under the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to expand high-speed internet access in underserved areas nationwide. Under the bill’s provisions, about half of the BEAD funds, those not tied directly to construction of broadband networks, would be returned to the U.S. Treasury. Supporters of the measure cite delays and unused funds as reasons for reconsidering the current funding structure. State officials and others say the funds could still support workforce, permitting and related efforts tied to broadband deployment. It is unclear whether the bill has enough support to advance in the 119th Congress.

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USDA Sets New Research Priorities for 2026

The U.S. Department of Agriculture on Tuesday announced a new slate of research priorities for 2026, focusing on farm profitability, climate resilience and food system innovation. USDA officials said upcoming competitive grants will emphasize soil health, water efficiency, pest and disease control, and technologies that help producers adapt to extreme weather. The priorities also include improving nutrition, food safety and rural economic development. Agriculture officials said the updated agenda reflects growing pressure on farmers from rising input costs, volatile markets and climate-related disruptions. Research investments, they said, are intended to deliver practical, science-based solutions producers can use on the ground. The plan will guide funding through USDA agencies such as the National Institute of Food and Agriculture and the Agricultural Research Service. Farm groups welcomed the announcement, saying targeted research is critical to maintaining U.S. competitiveness and long-term sustainability across crop and livestock sectors.

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China’s Soybean Strategy Raises Questions for U.S. Farmers

Efforts by China to reduce its reliance on imported soybeans are raising questions about the long-term outlook for U.S. soybean exports, analysts say. China, the world’s largest soybean buyer, has been encouraging lower soybean meal use in livestock feed and expanding domestic oilseed production. While imports remain high, any sustained reduction could have ripple effects across global markets. U.S. farmers rely heavily on export demand, with China historically accounting for a significant share of shipments. Analysts said even modest policy shifts in Beijing can influence prices received by American growers. Agricultural economists cautioned that China’s goals face practical limits, including feed efficiency and domestic supply constraints. Still, they said U.S. producers must monitor policy signals closely. Diversifying export markets and boosting domestic demand were cited as key strategies to reduce exposure to trade volatility.

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Bird Flu Detected in Iowa Backyard Flock

State agriculture officials confirmed a case of highly pathogenic avian influenza in a backyard flock of chickens and ducks in Dallas County, Iowa, marking the state’s latest detection of the virus. The Iowa Department of Agriculture said the affected birds were euthanized to prevent the spread of the disease, and quarantine measures were put in place around the premises. No commercial poultry facilities have been affected. Officials urged poultry owners to strengthen biosecurity practices, including limiting contact between domestic birds and wild waterfowl, which are known carriers of the virus. The detection comes as migratory birds move through the Midwest, increasing the risk of additional cases. While the virus poses little risk to the general public, it can be deadly to poultry and disruptive to farm operations. State and federal animal health officials continue monitoring flocks and working with producers to reduce the threat of further outbreaks.

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Beef Prices Expected to Keep Rising in 2026

Beef prices are expected to continue climbing in the coming year as tight cattle supplies in the United States and abroad strain the global market, analysts said. U.S. cattle inventories remain near multi-decade lows following years of drought that forced ranchers to shrink herds. At the same time, Brazil, the world’s largest beef exporter, is seeing reduced exportable supplies due to herd cycles and strong domestic demand. The combination is limiting available beef at a time when consumer demand has remained relatively steady. Wholesale prices have already risen, and higher costs are expected to reach grocery stores and restaurants. Economists say herd rebuilding in the U.S. will take time, meaning supply pressures are unlikely to ease quickly. Ranchers face high feed and land costs, slowing expansion. While higher prices may benefit producers, analysts caution that consumers could shift to cheaper proteins if beef becomes too expensive.

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Hog Inventory Report Signals Uncertainty for Pork Producers

The latest federal hog inventory report shows modest changes in U.S. hog numbers, underscoring continued uncertainty for pork producers heading into the new year. USDA data indicates that total hog and pig inventories are slightly higher than a year ago, while the breeding herd remains relatively stable. Farrowing intentions suggest producers are cautiously managing production amid fluctuating feed costs and uneven demand. Analysts said pork markets remain sensitive to export trends, particularly shipments to Mexico and Asia, as well as domestic consumer spending. Feed prices have eased compared to recent years, offering some relief, but margins remain tight. Producers continue balancing the risk of overproduction against the need to maintain cash flow. Industry groups said profitability will depend heavily on market access and price stability in 2026. The report highlights the delicate position pork producers face as they navigate uncertain economic conditions.

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